Name: Authentic Classic Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488757H48M5S
Total time: PT-488757H48M5S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 1 (25 oz) package fresh or frozen cheese ravioli• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided• 2 eggs• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened• 1/2 cup heavy cream• 2 cloves garlic, minced• 1 teaspoon dried oregano• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Prepare to be blown away by the unbelievable flavors of this Authentic Classic Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. This dish is a true showstopper, with layers of tender ravioli, a rich and creamy sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Get ready to indulge in a culinary experience that will leave you feeling like a million bucks!

As you dive into this casserole, you’ll be met with a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you to a world of pure comfort and indulgence. The silky-smooth sauce, the pillowy-soft ravioli, and the crunchy, melted cheese topping come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that is both visually stunning and utterly irresistible.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a cozy family meal, or craving a hearty and satisfying dish, this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is the answer. With its impressive presentation and mouthwatering flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

🎯 What Sets This Amazing Recipe Apart?

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole stands out from the crowd for several reasons. First and foremost, the combination of flavors is simply out of this world. The rich, creamy sauce is made with a blend of cheeses that add a depth of flavor that can’t be beat. The ravioli themselves are perfectly cooked, retaining their tender texture and delicate flavor.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail. Every step is carefully crafted to ensure that the final dish is a true culinary masterpiece. From the perfectly seasoned sauce to the golden, bubbly topping, every element of this casserole has been meticulously perfected to deliver an unparalleled dining experience.

🌿 Gathering Your High-Quality Components

• 1 (25 oz) package fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

The key to this recipe’s exceptional flavor is the perfect blend of cheeses. The ricotta, mozzarela, and Parmesan work together to create a creamy, tangy, and slightly salty profile that complements the ravioli beautifully. The eggs help to bind the filling, while the fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbal note. When it comes to the sauce, the marinara provides a rich, tomatoey base that is then elevated by the addition of cream cheese, heavy cream, and fragrant garlic and oregano.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan, the eggs, and the chopped parsley. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the ravioli in a single layer over the sauce. Spoon the ricotta filling over the ravioli, spreading it evenly. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, making sure to cover the ravioli completely. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan over the top.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible flavors of your homemade Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole!

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40-45 minutes
• Total time: 60-65 minutes

🥗 Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving

Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.

• Calories: 564 kcal
• Protein: 27 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 34 g
• Fiber: 3 g

🔄 Creative Twists & Variations

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free ravioli and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the marinara sauce, are also gluten-free. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly to accommodate the different texture of the gluten-free pasta.
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the ricotta cheese with a creamy, plant-based alternative, such as cashew or almond ricotta. Replace the mozzarella and Parmesan with your favorite vegan cheese blends. For the sauce, use a dairy-free cream cheese and unsweetened plant-based milk instead of heavy cream.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon or two of crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce into the ricotta filling or the marinara sauce. You can also top the casserole with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra burst of heat.

✨ How to Serve This Dish Like a Pro ?

• Main Course Pairing: Serve this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole as the main attraction, accompanied by a fresh, crisp salad and a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for a truly indulgent meal.
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the top of the casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of pesto, or a few dollops of ricotta cheese for a visually appealing presentation.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, or a crisp, refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a classic Italian soda or a glass of iced tea would also make an excellent companion.

❗ Pro Tips for a Perfect Outcome Every Time

• Mistake 1 – Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid the temptation to cram all the ravioli into the baking dish at once. This can lead to steaming instead of searing, resulting in a soggy texture. Instead, arrange the ravioli in a single layer, allowing for even cooking and browning.
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients, especially the cream cheese and ricotta, are at room temperature before assembling the casserole. This will ensure a smooth, creamy texture and prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Ensure that your oven is fully preheated to the correct temperature before baking the casserole. This will help the cheese melt and brown properly, creating that irresistible, golden-brown topping.

📦 How to Keep Your Leftovers Fresh

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat refrigerated leftovers, place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen portions, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. Assemble the casserole according to the instructions, but instead of baking it right away, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake the casserole as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the dish is straight from the fridge.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ravioli?

While the ravioli is the star of this recipe, you can certainly substitute it with other types of pasta. Cheese-filled tortellini or even lasagna noodles would work well in this casserole. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as different pasta shapes may have varying cooking times.

How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

To save on costs, you can make your own homemade ravioli filling instead of using the pre-made variety. This allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Additionally, you can use a less expensive brand of marinara sauce or even make your own sauce from scratch.

Can I add any extra vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a great canvas for adding extra veggies. Try sautéing some spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers and incorporating them into the ricotta filling or the sauce. Just be mindful of any additional moisture the vegetables may release, and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the regular ravioli with a gluten-free variety. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend in the sauce to ensure the entire dish is free of gluten. Be sure to double-check all of your other ingredients, such as the marinara sauce, to ensure they are also gluten-free.

⭐ Final Thoughts on This Amazing Recipe

This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a true culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds begging for more. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender ravioli, and irresistible cheesy topping, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply craving a comforting, indulgent meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate in ravioli perfection. This Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole is a dish that will transport you to a world of pure bliss, one bite at a time. Bon appétit!